Hormone imbalances can develop at any age and affect both men and women. They occur when glands in the endocrine system produce too much or too little of certain hormones. Common symptoms are fatigue, weight gain, low libido, anxiety, and depression. If left untreated, hormone deficiencies can increase the risk for various diseases. Blood tests help diagnose hormone imbalances. Treatment options aim to restore optimal hormone levels through medications, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. Ongoing monitoring ensures long-term health and wellbeing.
Detecting hormone imbalances begins with a medical history and physical exam. Patients are asked about medications taken, surgeries performed, and any family history of endocrine disorders. Blood tests check levels of key hormones produced in the adrenal glands, thyroid, pancreas, ovaries, and testes. Testing may need to be repeated over time to track patterns. Referral to an endocrinologist is recommended for complex hormone dysfunction cases. Once the underlying imbalance is identified, appropriate treatment can begin.
* Thyroid hormones (T3, T4) – regulate metabolism * Adrenal hormones (cortisol, DHEA) – manage stress response and immunity * Reproductive hormones (estrogen, testosterone) – govern sexual function and fertility * Growth hormone – impacts muscle/bone strength and body composition * Insulin – controls blood sugar and energy levels
Testosterone deficiency becomes more common as men age. Low testosterone causes fatigue, reduced muscle mass, weight gain, irritability, and erectile dysfunction. After diagnozing low levels through blood tests, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can effectively treat this hormone imbalance.
* Relieves depression and irritability * Increases energy and endurance * Builds lean muscle mass * Improves libido and sexual performance * Strengthens bones, reducing fracture risk * May lower cardiovascular disease risk
The starting dosage is customized based on the patient’s age and health status. Testosterone therapy is available as injections, gels, patches and pellets that dissolve under the skin. Follow-up blood tests are conducted to ensure testosterone levels are optimized, not exceeding normal ranges. Patients must commit to long-term monitoring for the duration of TRT.
Estrogens regulate a women’s reproductive cycle and prevent problems like hot flashes and vaginal dryness during perimenopause and menopause. Declining estrogen is typical as women age. Supplemental low-dose estrogen can provide relief. Systemic hormone therapy with pills, patches, gels or sprays restores estrogen to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. Localized estrogen creams, tablets and rings directly treat vaginal tissues. The patient’s preferences and risk factors help determine if systemic or localized therapy is the best choice.
* Women under age 60 with menopause symptoms * Women who’ve had their uterus removed * Healthy women within 10 years of menopause * Women at risk for bone loss and fractures
* Reduces hot flashes, night sweats * Lessens vaginal dryness discomfort * Prevents bone density loss * Improves skin thickness and collagen * Treats urinary incontinence * May reduce heart disease when started early
Popular brand names like Climara, Vivelle, Elestrin and Premarin contain potent estrogen hormones that effectively treat deficiencies. Estradiol and conjugated estrogens can be taken as pills, topical gels, skin patches, vaginal rings, or injections. Dosage starts low and increases if needed to relieve symptoms without exceeding safe levels. Ongoing medical monitoring checks treatment results.
An under active thyroid gland leads to a condition called hypothyroidism. Insufficient thyroid hormones slow metabolism and cause weight gain, fatigue, constipation, sensitivity to cold and hair thinning. Blood tests measuring TSH, T4 and T3 hormone levels confirm the diagnosis.
* Boosts energy and metabolism * Aids weight loss and maintenance * Relieves fluid retention * Improves gastrointestinal function * Normalizes cholesterol * Restores fertility and menstruation * Strengthens hair, skin and nails
Levothyroxine drugs like Synthroid, Levoxyl and Tirosint restore adequate thyroid hormone levels. Starting dosage depends on factors like age, medical history and degree of deficiency. Dosage starts low and increases gradually as needed. Patients take a consistent pill dose daily on an empty stomach. Follow up blood work checks progress. Once stable, patients continue medication long-term with ongoing medical monitoring.
When adrenal glands don’t produce enough cortisol and DHEA hormones, conditions like adrenal fatigue and adrenal insufficiency result. Symptoms involve low energy, salt cravings, dizziness upon standing, irritability and discolored skin. Treatment starts with de-stressing lifestyle changes along with dietary improvements. Cortisol medications treat acute cases. DHEA supplements boost low levels to improve wellness. Ongoing support sustains healthy adrenal function.
* Balance activity with rest * Limit caffeine and sugar intake * Reduce excess stress * Consume anti-inflammatory foods * Take adrenal-supportive herbs and adaptogens * Consider DHEA or cortisol medications short-term * Retest hormone levels in 4-8 weeks
Insulin imbalance involves both excess and insufficient production. Low insulin causes high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Excess insulin results in low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Maintaining healthy glucose control prevents energy fluctuations and reduces disease risk. Dietary changes and increased activity encourage weight loss while improving insulin sensitivity. Medications regulate insulin only when needed. Optimizing insulin levels takes commitment to long-term lifestyle improvements.
* Choose high fiber, nutrient-dense whole foods * Avoid sugar, refined grains and processed ingredients * Engage in consistent cardio and strength training * Reach/maintain healthy body weight * Take medications if needed temporarily * Work closely with your healthcare provider * Commit to lifestyle improvements long-term
Conveniently located in Newberry, MN, Hormone Harmony Clinic provides customized natural hormone therapy to help patients regain health, vitality and wellbeing. Our experienced practitioners use advanced testing to accurately diagnose hormone imbalances. We take a holistic approach to develop personalized treatment plans based on each patient's unique biochemistry, lifestyle and preferences. Cutting-edge therapies effectively restore hormone deficiencies. Ongoing monitoring ensures long-term safety and optimal wellness. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation.
